Valerie Saribalis-Cole, a UC Master Gardener of Napa County, shared advice on April 5 for planning and preparing gardens ahead of the spring planting season. She described how careful preparation, research, and site selection can improve plant survival rates and overall garden success.
The topic is important as many gardeners struggle with failed plantings due to poor planning or lack of information. By sharing practical strategies and resources, Saribalis-Cole aims to help local gardeners make informed decisions that support healthy gardens.
Saribalis-Cole said she once bought plants impulsively but later learned that proper preparation was essential. She now weeds and amends soil before buying new plants, checks long-range weather forecasts for ideal planting conditions, and matches plant choices to specific yard locations based on sun exposure. “With some planning, preparation and plant research on my part, the place in my garden where plants used to go to die no longer exists,” she said.
She recommended using online resources such as the Xerces Society’s pollinator-friendly list for California Central Coast native plants, Calscape from the California Native Plant Society, and the UC Davis Arboretum’s list of “All Stars” known to do well in California. While searching for specific native species like Ceanothus maritimus ‘Valley Violet’ or Ribes viburnifolium (evergreen currant), she sometimes substitutes with other drought-tolerant options when necessary.
The article also announced upcoming events: a tomato plant sale by UC Master Gardeners of Napa County on April 11 at 1710 Soscol Avenue in Napa; a workshop titled “All About Growing Tomatoes” via Zoom on April 12; and ongoing help desk services available online or at their office location.
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